One hand open and one hand closed

A room of business associates were once asked, half in jest, by a professional presenter, "What's the purpose of life?" A man raised his hand and responded, "The purpose of life is to be mature. To be mature is to walk with one hand open and one hand closed. It is to live with openness in considering new ideas and receive the good things around you: walking with one hand open. And it is to live with determination in your principles and beliefs, remaining steady in your goals and purpose: walking with one hand closed."

If we desire to enjoy the fulness of life, it is important that we learn to balance our impulses to command with our instincts to receive. There are some who passively accept what they receive from others and from circumstance, be it against their principles, be it abusive, or be it a waste of their time. These are people with no resistance. And there are those so rigid that they feel compelled to control others and their circumstances, impose their opinions and whims, and demand compliance with their way of doing things. With them there is no negotiation or flexibility. Finding a balance between these two extremes allows us to stand firm in our convictions while receiving and embracing the contributions of others and the good in life. By doing so we can live a structured and purpose-driven life, while remaining adaptable and amenable to life's constant encounters with the unknown, the unexpected, and the unwanted.